Asacol (Mesalamine)

Description

Asacol is belongs to a family of medications known as anti-inflammatory drugs. Its main component is mesalamine.

 

Uses

 

Asacol is used to treat a disease known as ulcerative colitis. It is a disorder of the bowels that results in sores in the large intestine. It is frequently accompanied by loose stools, bleeding of the rectum, and abdominal pain. Asacol is used to treat these symptoms of ulcerative colitis. This medication is also used to reduce the frequency with which the disorder manifests within the body. Asacol works by reducing the inflammation that occurs within the bowel. It can also be used to reduce the irritation that is caused by proctitis and proctosigmoiditis. This medication is sometimes also used to relieve the symptoms of Crohn’s disease.

 

Contact your physician for a full list of the benefits that this medication can provide.

 

Dosage

 

It is important to always follow the prescription that has been provided to you by your physician. You should not take Asacol in a quantity that is smaller or larger than has been directed.

 

This medication should be taken by mouth.

 

The dosage of Asacol that is recommended for adults is two 400mg tablets. This dosage should be taken three times a day.

 

The dosage of Asacol that is recommended for children is between 36mg and 44mg a day per kg of body weight.

 

This medication can be taken with or without a meal. Asacol tablets should not be cut, broken, or chewed when consumed.

 

If you forget to take one of your doses, take it as soon as you remember. If your next scheduled dose is due soon, do not take the missed dose. You should not take more than one dose at a time.

 

In the event of an overdose, you should contact your local emergency medical services immediately.

 

Side Effects

 

There are certain adverse reactions that can be caused by Asacol. Some of the side effects that are most experienced are:

 

 Extreme pain or discomfort in the abdomen
 Presence of blood in the stools
 Bleeding of the rectum

 

The side effects that are less commonly experienced with this medication are:

 

 Cramping in the stomach
 Problems with vision
 Lightheadedness
 Fever
 Feeling bloated or distended
 Headache
 Anxiety
 Irritation of the skin
 Presence of rash on the skin
 Erratic heartbeat
 Fatigue
 Discomfort in the chest
 Nausea
 Vomiting
 Yellow discoloration of the skin or the eyes

 

If you experience any of these unpleasant effects, contact your physician immediately.

 

Contraindications

 

 Inform your physician if you have become pregnant and have been prescribed Asacol. Ask your doctor if this medication can pass through breast milk before you begin breastfeeding your child.

 

 Do not take this medication if you have experienced an allergic reaction to mesalamine, salicylates, or aspirin.

 

 Asacol may have a negative impact on individuals who are suffering from a history of heart problems, liver disorders, or kidney ailments.

 

 Individuals with pyloric stenosis should inform their doctors if they have been diagnosed with the stomach disorder.

 

 Inform your doctor if you have ever had an adverse reaction to products containing sulfasalazine.